Smallish, very similar-looking butterflies, bright yellow with a black border around both wings on the upperside, more prominent on the hindwings of the Common grass yellow. The underside is more diagnostic, again yellow in both but the Common grass yellow is largely unmarked (Pic 1) whereas the Three-spot species has a ragged, reddish-black patch at or near the apex (point) of the forewing (Pic 2). The body is yellowish as well in both insects.
Behaviour
These are very common butterflies in Chennai and can often be seen fluttering close or moderately to the ground, perching frequently on a blade of grass or small flower. They usually rest with the wings closed above the back thus making the black upperside wing-borders difficult to spot except when in flight. Both are found throughout India and the Oriental region, with the Common grass yellow extending further into Africa and Australia. They are found in the plains and low hills.
